New Glentoran recruit Shane McEleney has laid out his primary objectives after joining Declan Devine's squad in the January transfer window. The former Derry City man made his debut in Tuesday night's 2-0 BetMcLean Cup win over Ballymena United.

It saw the Glens build more momentum following an impressive December which saw boss Devine named Manager of the Month.

Last Friday's Irish Cup victory over H&W Welders ensured Glentoran kicked off 2025 in positive fashion, and next up it's a trip to Ballymena in the Irish Premiership on Saturday.

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“I’m delighted to have made my debut and to start with such an important win is a real positive. The squad has been incredible in welcoming me, and there’s a real sense of determination throughout the dressing room to keep on improving as a team,:" McEleney said.

“This unbeaten run is a down to the hard work and togetherness within the squad, but we know the job is far from finished. January is packed with big fixtures in both the league and cups, and we’re approaching each game with a focused, one-game-at-a-time mindset to ensure we’re ready for every challenge.

“I came to Glentoran to test myself and to be part of a team that competes for trophies. My priority now is to build on my debut performance, contribute wherever I can, and help deliver results for this club and its incredible fans. The support I’ve received from fans since arriving has been outstanding, and it’s clear just how much this club means to them.”

McEleney added: “Joining a squad with such a positive atmosphere has been fantastic. From the moment I arrived, everyone has been pulling in the same direction, and there’s a real buzz around the club.

“Having familiar faces like Ciarán, Declan, and the two Paddy’s has definitely made the move even easier, but the entire squad has been incredible. It’s exciting to be part of this group of players.”

Glentoran's January includes a County Antrim Shield final against Larne, with the East Belfast side also into the semi-finals of the BetMcLean Cup and sixth round of the Irish Cup.

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They currently sit second in the Premiership behind runaway leaders Linfield.

McEleney said: “Competing on multiple fronts should be the standard for a club of Glentoran’s stature, and this squad is ready to embrace that challenge. We’ve got big games in the league and cups, but there’s a real belief in the dressing room that we have what it takes to keep pushing and delivering results.

“We know what’s at stake, and everyone here is pulling in the same direction. The fans deserve to see this club competing for silverware, and we’re determined to give them plenty to cheer about.

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